The Adults' Table

Juliana Baranowski, Head of Platform at Brazilian VC firm Astella, shares how she unexpectedly moved from journalism and communications into venture capital. The conversation emphasizes not waiting for validation—especially for women—acting despite discomfort, being proactive and solution-oriented early in a career, and using a guiding vision of “the person I want to be” to step outside a comfort zone. 04:38 Discovering the ‘Connector’ Skill (and Why It Matters)05:34 Juliana's Career Path: From PR Dreams to Joining a VC Fund10:13 Impostor Syndrome in High-Performing Ecosystems13:36 Claiming Your Seat: Self-Investment, Feedback, and Owning Your Story16:28 Doing It Scared: Perfectionism, Anxiety, and Pushing Past Discomfort19:01 Becoming Your Future Self: Values, Vision, and Long-Term Reflection23:04 How to Know What You Want 26:47 Advice for Your 20s32:45 How to Show Professionalism Early: Proactivity and Structured Solutions34:35 What Makes Great Founders41:08 How VCs Evaluate the ‘Why’: Deep Dives Beyond the PitchFind Juliana on LinkedInhttps://linkedin.com/in/julianabaranowskiFollow us on social media for more content https://www.instagram.com/theadultstableshowhttps://tiktok.com/@theadultstableshow

From Au Pair to Director at Kendo Brands (Fenty), Priscila Pires shares her journey of starting over in the U.S., navigating career detours, and the resilience many immigrants carry in silence.We explore what it means to integrate without assimilating, how career “detours” can become advantages, and why reconnecting with your roots can be a source of power.A deeply honest conversation about belonging, ambition, community, and becoming more yourself over time.00:43 Introducing Priscila Pires: A Journey of Courage02:15 Navigating Life as an Immigrant in the US06:05 Starting Over: The Au Pair Experience14:42 Building a Career in Corporate America23:47 Overcoming Stereotypes and Embracing Identity27:39 Rediscovering Brazilian Roots32:49 Embracing Spirituality44:19 Impact of Brazilian Culture on Relationships48:28 Advice for Immigrants in Corporate AmericaAbout PriscilaPriscila Pires is a Senior Sourcing Director at Kendo Brands (Fenty Beauty, Fenty Skin, Fenty Hair), with a global career spanning L’Oréal , Huda Beauty, and Shiseido.Follow us on social mediahttp://instagram.com/theadultstableshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thefernandarodrigues2

TO be bored doesn’t mean to lose time. We’ve become obsessed with being constantly stimulated and productive. But the truth is that you can find a lot of inspiration, fun, and fulfillments in moments that you’re not being “productive”.In today’s episode, and the first of a series of weekly solo episodes that I’ll be launching every Friday, I talk about how I’m changing my relationship with my free time/boredom.How do you deal with these moments in your life?

Ever feel like you're not confident enough to go after what you want? What if confidence isn't something you're born with, it's something you build?In this episode, Renata Koch Alvarenga, a climate leader, Harvard-trained public policy expert, Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, and the first young Brazilian to speak at the UN Commission on the Status of Women, shares how she shows up in rooms that weren't built for her. Discover practical tips and inspiring anecdotes that will help you build self-confidence, regardless of societal expectations and external pressures.02:11 Renata's Background03:41 Self-Confidence is Political 06:50 Navigating Public Speaking and Self-Doubt11:04 Balancing Authenticity and Professionalism24:01 Dealing with Failure and Seeking Validation29:51 Exploring Professional Identity Beyond Work30:20 Navigating Work-Life Balance and Personal Identity33:06 The Impact of Age and  Challenges of Youth in Professional Spaces 40:49 Overcoming Structural Barriers and Gatekeeping43:51 The Journey of Self-Confidence and Vulnerability47:58 Embracing Childhood Boldness and Unapologetic Dreams53:03 Final Thoughts on Belonging and TransformationFind Renata on:https://www.instagram.com/renatakochalvarenga/https://linkedin.com/in/renatakochalvarengaLearn more about EmpoderaClima, Renata's NGO https://www.empoderaclima.org/https://www.instagram.com/empoderaclima/Follow us on social media for more useful content​https://www.tiktok.com/@theadultstableshow http://instagram.com/theadultstableshowGet our really cool merch, including the comfiest & cutest sweatshirt :)https://theadultstableshow.printful.me/

Running is hard. Life is hard. What if learning to handle one teaches you to handle the other?In this episode, Rachel Allworth – a running coach who teaches everyday people to search for discomfort instead of avoiding it – shares why doing hard things builds the mental strength you need for everything else. Rachel's insights on mental strength, goal-setting, and the importance of facing fears are invaluable for anyone looking to reinvent themselves. Whether you're an aspiring runner or just looking for life-changing advice, this episode is for you!01:32 The Hard Truth About Running03:23 Breaking Down the Hard: Strategies for Beginners05:28 The Mental and Physical Benefits of Running10:05 Rachel's Journey: From Non-Runner to Coach19:37 Overcoming Excuses and Building Consistency23:00 Misconceptions About Running24:50 Life Lessons from Running26:19 Reinventing Yourself After Life Changes33:15 Mindset and Tips for Marathon Runners39:11 Embracing the Hard to ImproveLearn more about Rachel's Runners:https://rachelsrunners.com/Find Rachel on Social Media:https://www.instagram.com/rachels_runners/?hl=enFind us on Social Media:https://www.instagram.com/theadultstableshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theadultstableshow

Feeling lost in your career path? Wondering if it's possible to switch lanes and find fulfillment in something new? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ana Clara Gontijo, a multidimensional entrepreneur who transitioned from fashion buying in Norway to jewelry product management and is now taking a leap to follow her passion. Discover how she navigated career challenges, the importance of extracting knowledge from every experience, and the courage it takes to pursue your dreams. 04:08 Understanding the Role of a Fashion Buyer06:57 Transitioning to Jewelry: New Challenges and Discoveries08:12 Moving to Norway and Career Growth19:54 Work Mindset in Norway vs. the U.S/Brazil29:31 Self-Esteem and Independence34:44 Facing the Fear of Change35:09 The Illusion of Job Security46:49 Extracting Value from Every Job57:15 How to Show Your Passion Over Experience in Job InterviewsFind Ana Clara Gontijo on social media:https://www.instagram.com/anaclaragontijo/https://www.tiktok.com/@anaclaramgontijoFollow The Adults' Table:https://www.instagram.com/theadultstableshowhttps://tiktok.com/@theadultstableshowWatch this episode with auto-generated subtitles on YouTube.

Born in João Pessoa, Brasil, Rebeca Nepomuceno is a fashion designer who has been bringing her brand to life since 2013, reflecting her many creative facets. Rebeca found in wedding dresses a unique way of telling stories, using lines, textures and shapes to communicate emotions and establish deep connections.In this episode, she brought to the table one of my favorite topics: authenticity. From her early aspirations to studying fashion in Australia, Rebecca shares her journey of embracing authenticity in both her personal and professional life. This episode explores the courage needed to stay true to oneself, the importance of saying no, and balancing various facets of life. Perfect for anyone on a journey to self-discovery and authenticity.01:28 Family Influence and Early Life03:18 Navigating Adolescence and Authenticity05:48 Career Beginnings and Challenges11:48 The Australian Experience18:12 Balancing Multiple Roles21:54 Overcoming Self-Doubt23:03 Navigating Social Media Insecurities25:23 The Importance of Authenticity in Wedding Dress Design37:06 The Role of Therapy and Marriage42:32 Final Thoughts on Authenticity and CourageRebeca Nepomuceno Bridal | Custom and prêt-à-porterhttps://rebecanepomuceno.com/enhttps://www.instagram.com/rebecanepomuceno/Find Rebeca on social mediahttps://www.instagram.com/rbcnepomuceno/https://www.tiktok.com/@rebecanepomucenocFind us on social mediahttps://www.instagram.com/theadultstableshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theadultstableshowMerchhttps://theadultstableshow.printful.me/*Ouça este episódio com legendas em português no YouTube

Ever feel like you're either doing nothing for your health or trying to do everything at once? That "all-or-nothing" mentality might be exactly what's keeping you stuck.Manoella Campello is a dietitian who ditched diet culture to focus on balance, behavior, and food freedom – proving you can be healthier without restriction.In this episode, she brought her perspective on nutrition to the table.She explained why restrictive diets backfire, why willpower is a myth, and how to build sustainable eating habits without guilt or deprivation.You'll learn:Why restriction leads to overeating (and how to break the cycle)How to eat what you love without losing controlWhy shortcuts don't work (and what does)How to track progress beyond the scaleIf you're tired of yo-yo dieting and feeling guilty every time you eat, this conversation will shift how you think about food and your body.Find Manoella at:https://www.instagram.com/manoellacampellonutri/https://www.tiktok.com/@manoellacampello https://manoellacampello.com.br/Follow us on social media for more content: https://www.instagram.com/theadultstableshow/http://tiktok.com/@theadultstableshow Cool merch :)https://theadultstableshow.printful.me/Keywords: healthy eating without dieting, intuitive eating, sustainable weight loss, food freedom, anti-diet approach, how to stop overeating

Welcome back to The Adults' Table and happy 2026! Join us for the first episode of Season 2 as we reflect on Season 1 and discuss the importance of starting new projects, setting realistic goals, and embracing failure as part of the journey. Tune in to hear valuable insights and practical advice on how to break down larger goals into manageable steps and celebrate small milestones. This season, we're exploring what our guests bring to the table and diving deep into conversations led by their personal passions and experiences. Don't miss out on this inspiring start to the new season!00:00 Welcome to Season Two!01:05 Reflecting on Season One02:06 Breaking Down Goals06:43 Embracing Imperfection08:58 Learning from Mistakes12:07 The Importance of Starting14:10 What to Expect in Season Two15:17 Thank You and Final Thoughts

You are not for everybody, and that’s the best news of your life. In this episode, we dive into the freedom that comes when you finally stop chasing universal approval and start showing up as who you really are.Most of us confuse connection with validation. We’re so afraid of rejection that we shapeshift, hoping to be accepted by everyone. But validation without authenticity is fragile, it crumbles the moment you change context. Authenticity, on the other hand, creates stability and attracts the right people, the ones who actually see you.As we close out Season 1 of The Adults’ Table, I reflect on what this season has taught me, the power of starting, and what’s coming next for Season 2.If you’ve ever felt torn between fitting in and being yourself, this episode is your reminder: you’re not for everybody, and that’s exactly what makes you magnetic to the right people.🎙 Socials⁠https://www.instagram.com/theadultstableshow/⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@theadultstableshow⁠Merch⁠https://theadultstableshow.printful.me/⁠Newsletter⁠https://thefernandarodrigues.substack.com/⁠#theadultstableshow #podcasts #selfgrowth #lifeadvice

Do you really hate socializing—or do you just hate certain kinds of socializing? In this episode of The Adult’s Table, I unpack my love/hate relationship with being around people. As someone who often feels pressure to “be more social,” I share what it’s like to navigate friendships, connection, and introversion as an adult, especially after moving countries and hitting my 30s.We’ll talk about why socializing feels draining sometimes, how to tell the difference between not liking people vs. not liking certain settings, and how to redefine what friendship and connection look like for you. If you’ve ever thought “I hate socializing” (or felt guilty for not wanting to go out), this conversation is for you.✨ If you’re introverted, I want to hear your perspective. If you’re extroverted, help us understand your side too. Leave a comment with your experience – I’d love to know how you navigate socializing.🔔 Subscribe for honest conversations about adulthood, choices, and self-growth🎙 Socials⁠https://www.instagram.com/theadultstableshow/⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@theadultstableshow⁠Merch⁠https://theadultstableshow.printful.me/⁠Newsletter⁠https://thefernandarodrigues.substack.com/⁠

We all say we want to “be authentic,” but do we even know what that means? In this episode of The Adults’ Table, I dig into the real meaning of authenticity – beyond the Instagram quotes and overused buzzwords. We’ll talk about why showing up as your true self is so difficult, how personas and validation shape who we think we are, and why belonging often clashes with authenticity. You’ll hear about the shadow side of your personality, the friction you’ll face from family and friends, and why being authentic can sometimes feel selfish (but isn’t). If you’ve ever felt torn between being accepted and being yourself, this conversation is for you.Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/theadultstableshow/https://www.tiktok.com/@theadultstableshowMerchhttps://theadultstableshow.printful.me/Newsletterhttps://thefernandarodrigues.substack.com/

In this episode, we dive deep into the real meaning of discipline and why it’s the key to true freedom, especially if you don’t consider yourself naturally disciplined or full of willpower.We break down the myths around discipline, showing it’s not about punishment or living a strict, joyless life. Instead, discipline is about self-respect, honoring your commitments, and taking responsibility for your own growth. Whether you’re struggling to stick to your goals, tired of feeling like a victim of your circumstances, or just want to level up your consistency, this conversation is for you.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why discipline is an act of self-love, not self-punishmentThe difference between making a choice and making a decisionHow to identify what you truly value (and why that matters)The role of rituals, routines, and planning in building disciplineHow to overcome decision fatigue and set realistic expectationsThe importance of adaptability and self-awareness in staying consistentWhy you need to stop negotiating with yourself and start honoring your commitmentsWe’ll also discuss insights from James Clear’s “Atomic Habits,” Steven Pressfield’s “The War of Art,” and practical tips for organizing your life, even if you’re not naturally organized.If you’re ready to stop making excuses, take ownership of your life, and finally build the discipline you need to achieve your goals, pull up a chair and join the conversation.👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more honest talks at the Adult Table!🔔 Don’t forget to hit the bell so you never miss an episode.Socials:http://instagram.com/theadultstableshowhttp://tiktok.com/theadultstableshow Merch:https://theadultstableshow.printful.me/Newsletter:⁠https://substack.com/@thefernandarodrigues#Discipline #SelfImprovement #Willpower #AtomicHabits #PersonalGrowth

You are creative. Even if you’ve convinced yourself otherwise. In this episode, I’m breaking down why creativity isn’t just for “artists” or “geniuses” — it’s a force that lives in all of us.I share why so many of us stopped believing we were creative, how resistance shows up to block our ideas, and why we confuse creativity with inspiration, artistic talent, or being disruptive.Then, I’ll walk you through what creativity really is, and how you can start inviting it back into your life – whether that’s at work, in your art, or just in the way you solve everyday problems.If you’ve ever said “I’m just not a creative person,” this conversation is for you. Socials:http://instagram.com/theadultstableshowhttp://tiktok.com/theadultstableshow Merch:https://theadultstableshow.printful.me/Newsletter:⁠https://substack.com/@thefernandarodrigues

Feeling like you don’t know who you are anymore?If life feels unfamiliar, if you’re questioning your path, your choices, or even yourself – you might be in an identity crisis. And that’s exactly what we’re unpacking in today’s episode of The Adults’ Table.We’ll explore:What identity really is: fixed, fluid, or flexible?Why identity crises happen How big life shifts can shake your sense of selfWhy life isn’t a straight line but a spiral that asks us to redefine who we are again and again.The tools and practices that are helping me navigate my own quarter-life crisis – from comfort and discomfort, to awareness, journaling, and talking it out.Whether you’re 16 or 60, you’re not alone in this. Identity crises are part of our developmental process, and embracing them can actually expand our consciousness and bring us closer to who we truly are.So, come have a seat at The Adults’ Table, and let’s talk about what it really means to answer the question: “Who am I?”

You can’t have it all at the same time, but you can have what matters. In this episode, I’m breaking down the myth that happiness means having every area of your life at its peak all at once – and replacing it with something more realistic: focus on what you truly value. But first, you have to know what that is… and be willing to accept the consequences of choosing it.What we’ll talk about:Coming to terms with the fact that time and energy are limited resourcesHow to figure out what your true priorities areOwning your priorities, and the consequences of choosing themAligning your actions with what actually mattersRe-thinking what you say yes (and no) toMaximizing your time so you can do more of what mattersSocials:http://instagra.com/theadultstableshowhttps://tiktok.com/@theadultstableshowMerch:https://theadultstableshow.printful.me/Newsletter:https://thefernandarodrigues.substack.com/

We often romanticize relationships so much that we lose touch with reality. In this episode, I share 20 honest truths about love: the beautiful, the difficult, and the ones no one talks about. Whether you’re single, dating, or married, these insights will help you see relationships more clearly and build something that lasts. We’ll cover:​Why most of us don’t actually want a relationship (we want something we think it will give us)​The difference between the partner you say you want vs. the one you actually choose​How subconscious “agreements” shape your relationship dynamics​Why healthy relationships can feel harder than toxic ones at first​The role of friction in growth​The real shift that happens when your partner becomes your familyCome have a seat at The Adults’ Table, and let’s get real about relationships!Chapters02:55 Do You Really Want a Relationship?11:51 A Relationship Is Between 4 People19:11 Adjusting to a Healthy Relationship21:39 Independence and Making Space for a Partner28:34 Why Disagreements Can Be Healthy31:41 Love as a Conscious Choice33:38 When Your Partner Becomes Your Family38:57 Growing in Love Over Time40:36 Taking Responsibility for Your Happiness

Whether you live abroad, dream of it, or love someone who does – this episode is for you.In our first roundtable, I sit down with Glauci Fernandes and Nathália Santos Lohmann, two brilliant women who’ve built international careers and have been living abroad for over a decade.We talk about the highs, the hard parts, and what it really takes to build a life that feels like your own, even far from home00:00 Introduction to the Guests05:29 Planning vs. Spontaneity in Moving Abroad13:45 The Emotional Challenges of Living Abroad30:33 Raising Children in a Foreign Land37:04 Cultural Barriers and Family Dynamics38:14 Raising Bilingual Children40:07 Maintaining Connections with Family Abroad44:01 Building Friendships in a New Country51:24 Humbling Experiences of Living Abroad58:01 Navigating Language and Accent Challenges01:10:07 Final Thoughts and Advice for Living Abroad👍 If you enjoyed this conversation, don't forget to subscribe, share this episode with friends, and follow us on social media for more thoughtful discussions.Socials:http://instagra.com/theadultstableshowhttps://tiktok.com/@theadultstableshowMerch:https://theadultstableshow.printful.me/Newsletter:https://thefernandarodrigues.substack.com/

Join us at The Adults' Table for a captivating conversation with Edmar Ferreira – a tech entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Coeus Ventures, a cutting edge Venture Studio dedicated to creating AI-driven companies. In this episode, Edmar explores the future of AI, the inherent paradoxes in technological progress, and the ethical questions that arise as we advance. 05:12 You are not special, but you can still create 22:30 Personal career insights31:34 The Limits of Technology and Society33:03 The Evolution of Human Challenges34:28 The Impact of Intelligence and Technology42:19 The Role of Struggle in Human Growth48:56 The Potential and Risks of AI52:08 The Future of Education with AI55:33 Concerns About Power Concentration01:00:55 Final Thoughts and Advice in the era of AI Don’t miss out on this thought-provoking episode! Subscribe to our podcast, share this video, and follow us on social media for more in-depth discussions that matter.Socials:http://instagra.com/theadultstableshowhttps://tiktok.com/@theadultstableshowMerch:https://theadultstableshow.printful.me/Newsletter:https://thefernandarodrigues.substack.com/

Sometimes the biggest thing standing between us and what we want… is us. Not because we don’t care, or aren’t capable, but because fear and self-protection run deeper than we realize.In this episode, we explore the quiet, often unnoticed ways we get in our own way. From perfectionism and procrastination to over-planning and fear of success, I break down how self-sabotage works – and how to catch it with curiosity instead of judgment. We'll talk about:​Why we sabotage ourselves​The fear of success and what it actually means​8 unconscious ways you might be self sabotaging right now Socials:http://instagra.com/theadultstableshowhttps://tiktok.com/@theadultstableshowMerch:https://theadultstableshow.printful.me/Newsletter:https://thefernandarodrigues.substack.com/